When summer in Northeast Ohio arrives, the steamy temperatures often leave families in search of ways to cool off.
Whether you’re seeking a full-day trip or a quick dip, fast thrills to relaxing chills, there are some great water-themed activities — that are affordable or free — close to home. While we can’t cover them all, read on for some highlights to add to your family’s summer itinerary.
Make a Splash
Get all the thrills of a waterpark without the long drive and high admission price by visiting Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park in Chardon, Clay’s Park in North Lawrence or Water Works Family Fun Center in Cuyahoga Falls.
Pioneer Waterland offers four six-story high slides, swimming pool, Water Cannon War Zone and a lazy river.
Situated around a 10-acre sand-bottom lake, Clay’s Park attractions include two 150-foot Wet Willie slides, inflatables and separate small children’s area.
Water Works Family Fun Center boasts a variety of slides, from larger enclosed tube and open body slides to a lazy river, waterfalls and geysers.
Looking for some free water fun for the kids?
Don’t overlook local splash pads, including one at Crocker Park in Westlake. Splash Pad, presented by Lake Ridge Academy, is open daily and offers kids an opportunity to cool down while burning off some energy. As an added bonus, most evenings, the pad transforms into a light show.
“The Splash (Pad) is a really fun place for parents to bring their kids, whether they’re out shopping for the day and want to make a quick stop, or they plan to spend a few hours there,” says Lisa Schwan, director of communications for Stark Enterprises.
Watersports, Fast and Slow
Whether you’re more of the spectating type or the kind who likes to jump in on the action, watersport opportunities abound in Northeast Ohio.
Check out Crooked River Adventures, located in Kent, which offers canoe, kayak and tube rentals for trips along the Cuyahoga River to three destinations, all with easy-to-navigate routes and beautiful views (don’t worry, return transportation is provided). Additional options include a guided tour, or having a bike delivered to the paddling destination to make the return trip.
The Cleveland Metroparks’ Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store rents canoes, kayaks, rowboats, motorized rowboats, stand-up paddleboards, paddleboats and pontoons for use on the park’s 90-acre lake. The facility also offers refreshments, fishing tackle and bait.
If you’d rather watch the water thrills from the shore, head to Emerald Lake in Norton to watch a free weekly performance by the Chippewa Lake Water Ski Show Team. Shows take place Wednesday evenings from mid-June through August.
“It’s show skiing that can’t be had anywhere else in Ohio,” says Tom Melter, team president. “We are the only competitive water ski show team in the state — and we’re comprised of families.”
Beaches, Great (Lakes) and Small
The shores of Lake Erie provide several beaches from the east to the west. For those a little farther south, sandy swim areas are closer than you think.
For a magnificent view of Cleveland’s skyline while you picnic and swim, check out Edgewater Park, part of the Cleveland Metroparks’ Lakefront Reservation, which was acquired by the parks system last year. Edgewater offers a 900-foot swimming beach, playground, pavilions and a nearby fishing pier.
“We’re proud to offer several very safe areas for families to get out and enjoy the water and summer weather,” says Christy Szoke, Cleveland Metroparks’ aquatics facilities manager. “They’re spread throughout Northeast Ohio so they’re easy to get to for everyone. It’s great for families, individuals, couples and friends of all age groups.”
Go east and enjoy Lake Metroparks’ Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park. This 21-acre park features a beach with a gradual slope and sandy bottom, according to Lake Metroparks’ website. Visitors can also go kayaking, canoeing and attend the special beach programs/festivals.
Families who don’t want to leave Fido at home can use the designated “Dog Swim Area,” which is located at the east end of the beach.
Farther south, the 411-acre Portage Lakes State Park, located in New Franklin, offers visitors a variety of water fun, including boating and fishing on several lakes — Turkeyfoot Lake features a 900-foot public swimming beach. The park also offers a dog park, disc golf course, hiking trails and several picnic areas to round out your family’s day.
With summer around the corner, it’s time to grab your towels and stock up on sunscreen so your family will be ready for these fun-in-the-sun attractions.